Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, (608) 356-8301 ext 140 or e-mail - Tumbled Rocks Hike. Take a nature hike during your lunch break! We’ll hike or snowshoe the Tumbled Rocks Trail. Earn miles towards the “Hike 101” happening at the park. Meet at Tumble Rocks Trailhead on the North Shore. Noon - 1 p.m.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 or e-mail - Nature Storytime. Naturalist Julie Fox will share a story and activity with pre-schoolers and their parents at the Ice Age Center. It is a great opportunity for parents to get out to the park with their little ones during this time of the year! Nature Storytime will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the number of participants. Program is indoors and outdoors, weather permitting, so parents should dress their children accordingly. 10 a.m.
Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 or e-mail - Snowshoeing by Moonlight. A winter moonlit walk is a magical experience! Bring your own snowshoes or snowshoes will be provided. No experience necessary. To register, call (920) 533-8322 by February 8, 2012. This program is most appropriate for ages 10 and older. Greenbush Recreation Area Warming Shelter. 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Knee-High Naturalist. Bring your 3-5 year old to this fun and involving nature program. This month discover how fun the mitten can be. Dress to go outside. Please pre-register by calling (262) 878-5600. Meet at the Visitor Center. Program will go on regardless of weather, but topic may change. 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Brule River State Forest, Brule 715-372-5678 - Afterhours Ski Trail Candlelight Ski. Two miles of cross-country ski trails lit by candles and moonlight. After skiing come sit around the warm bonfire and have some hot cocoa or cider and that will be provided in the warming house. A grill will be provided for cooking whatever you would like to bring to cook. Free- no trail passes required. 6-9 p.m.
Copper Falls State Park, Mellen (715) 274-5123 - Candlelight Ski/Snowshoe. Join the Friends of Copper Falls State Park for the first annual Candlelight Ski/Snowshoe on Saturday, February 11, 2012 from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Both snowshoe and ski trails will be illuminated totaling over 2 miles of trail. A large bonfire will be provided and refreshments will be available. Event is weather permitting. 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Crex Meadows Wildlife Area, Grantsburg, 715-463-2739 - Snowshoe Interpretive Walk: "Please Turn up the Heat!" Friends of Crex member Dale Bohlke, will lead a snowshoe walk. We can dress in layers, but how do animals stay warm during winter? Participate in this snowshoe hike to discover the winter animal warming tricks. Dress to be outdoors for 2-2 1/2 hours. Mittens and warm boots are recommended. The tour will be held regardless of the weather. Cost is $5 and snowshoes are available for a $5 rental fee. Group size is limited to 10; please call (715) 463-2739 to make your reservation. Visitor center at 1 p.m.
Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, (608) 356-8301 ext 140 or e-mail - Learn to Snowshoe. Come and try out this fun winter activity. We’ll start out at the Nature Center with a brief introduction to snowshoeing then head out to try the equipment. Natue Center. 11 a.m. - Noon.
Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 or e-mail - Candlelight Night. Experience a winter evening by candlelight as hundreds of candles are lit to guide skiers, snowshoers and hikers on separate trails. Snowshoes available for ages six and up. There are warming fires at the trailheads, and food and refreshments available at the Ice Age Center. The event is supported by the Friends of Interstate State Park. Ice Age Interpretive Center and the Camp Interstate Shelter. Event is weather permitting. 6-9 p.m.
Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 or e-mail - Who's Been Here? Tracking on Snowshoes: Exploring Nature Program. By just looking at a track, we can figure out what animal passed through the area. Master some of the tricks of snowshoeing and tracking animals in winter. If there is not enough snow for snowshoeing, we will hike the trail. To register call (920) 533-8322 by February 9, 2012. This program is best for families/groups with children over 8 years old. Ice Age Visitor Center. 10-11:45 a.m.
Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 or e-mail - Valentine Candlelight Ski and Hike. Celebrate Valentine’s Day early while enjoying the winter wonderland at night with family and friends. Ski or hike a two-mile trail lit by almost 200 tiki torches. Warm up afterwards by the fireplace. Refreshments will be available in the heated shelter building. Please, no pets, snowshoes or sleds. Vehicle sticker required. Supported by the Friends of Kohler-Andrae. Meet at the cross-country ski trail. Stop at office for directions. Event is weather permitting. 6-9 p.m.
Lake Kegonsa State Park, Stoughton, (608) 873-9695 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski. Enjoy a beautiful winter evening skiing along two miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, lit with hundreds of glowing luminaries. When you are finished, warm up by the bonfire and enjoy refreshments sold by the Lake Kegonsa State Park Friends Group. This event is for skiing only. No pets, hiking or snowshoeing are allowed on cross-country ski trails. This event is weather and snow conditions permitting. 6-9 p.m.
Lapham Peak Unit - Kettle Moraine State Forest, Delafield, (262) 646-3025 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike. Just over 1 mile of candlelight skiing and hiking on the trails of Lapham Peak. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the Friends of Lapham Peak, as well as live music entertainment, and the warmth of a fire while sitting inside the Trekker Lodge. Outside seating and bonfire will also available. Homestead Hollow parking lot and Trekker Lodge. Event is weather permitting. 6-9 p.m.
Peshtigo River State Forest, Crivitz, (715) 757-3965 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski and Hike. The Peshtigo River State Forest will be holding a Candlelight Ski/Hike on Saturday, February 11, 2012 from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Meet at the Spring Rapids trailhead, 5 miles west from Crivitz on County Road W to Kirby Lake Lane. Skiers will be able to ski on an easy 2-mile candlelit trail that offers both classic and skate styles. Non-skiers can try an easy 1-mile candlelit hike along the Peshtigo River. Warming fires and hot chocolate will be available for everyone. This event is free. For more information on this fun, winter wonderland event, please contact the state forest office at (715) 757-3965. Event is weather permitting.
Pike Lake Unit - Kettle Moraine State Forest, Hartford, (262) 670-3400 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike. Over 300 luminaries will light two 0.75-mile trail loops for the evening. Skiers, hikers, and snowshoers share the trails. A roaring bonfire will warm the night, and refreshments will be served in the shelter. Members of the Northern Cross Science Foundation will be on hand with their telescopes to guide visitors through the night sky. This event is supported by the Friends of Pike Lake. Meet at the South Shelter at the beach/picnic area. 6-9 p.m.
Rib Mountain State Park, Wausau, (715) 842-2522 - Candlelight Snowshoe. Snowshoe the trails at Rib Mountain by candlelight. Supported by the Friends of Rib Mountain State Park [exit DNR]. Meet at the concession stand. 6-8 p.m. Event is weather permitting. For more information, call (715) 581-7983 or (715) 842-2522, or e-mail.
Cross-country Ski Clinic. Bring your skis and join instructor John Meyer to learn about waxing and other skiing tips. The diagonal stride technique will be taught and practiced. Please pre-register by calling (262) 878-5600. Meet at Shelter #1. Ski clinic is weather dependent. 9-11 a.m.
Return to Romance. Warm someone's heart this Valentine's Day with a visit to the park. Enjoy a candlelit walk, a bonfire, music fine desserts and warm drinks with your special someone(s). Pre-register and pre-pay fee is $5/adult and $1/child plus state park admission sticker. Visitor Center. Event is weather permitting. 7-9 p.m. Supported by the Bong Naturalist Association [exit DNR].
Willow River State Park, Hudson, (715) 386-5931 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski and Hike. Ski or hike on trails lit by candles. Enjoy refreshments at the Nature center and bonfires at the boat launch and behind the nature center. Willow River State Park nature center. Event is weather permitting. 6-9 p.m.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Kettle Moraine State Forest--Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 or e-mail - Learn about Wolves in Wisconsin. Larry and Emily Scheunemann will present a 1-hour program that focuses on the current status of the wolf recovery program in Wisconsin. They will describe some of the research techniques used to monitor the wolf population, including the use of tracking surveys and howling surveys. Forest Headquarters - 3 miles west of Eagle on Highway 59. Event is 7-8:30 p.m.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 or e-mail - Nature Storytime. Naturalist Julie Fox will share a story and activity with pre-schoolers and their parents at the Ice Age Center. It is a great opportunity for parents to get out to the park with their little ones during this time of the year! Nature Storytime will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the number of participants. Program is indoors and outdoors, weather permitting, so parents should dress their children accordingly. 10 a.m.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 or e-mail - Moon Faces Nature Storytime. Has the moon ever smiled at you? Come uncover the many faces of the moon. This hour of nature fun awaits 3 to 6 year-olds with accompanying adults. Henry S. Reuss Ice Age Visitor's Center. 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Crex Meadows Wildlife Area, Grantsburg, 715-463-2739 - Shakers & Movers 2012 Series: Wolves and their Signs. Each month we will take a closer look at a person, animal, or management practice that has an impact on something else. Crex Meadows Biologist, Steve Hoffman, and Wildlife Tech Bob Hanson will present about wolves and the signs they leave behind. The morning will begin in the classroom then we will head out into Crex Meadows for some hands on investigation. Be sure to dress for winter weather. Outdoor activity requires walking through snow. Crex Meadows Visitor Center and throughout the wildlife area. 9 a.m. to noon
Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, (608) 356-8301 ext 140 or e-mail - Great Backyard Bird Count. Come and watch the birds! Spend some time counting the birds at the feeders around the Nature Center. These results will be recorded online so you can check out the results. We’ll have some simple bird crafts to do as well. Nature Center. 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Governor Thompson State Park, Crivitz, (715) 757-3979 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski and Hike. Enjoy luminaries set out to light a 1-mile loop trail groomed for both diagonal striding and skate skiing as it weaves through the woods. Non-skiers are welcome to hike on another 1-mile candlelit trail with scenic views of Woods Lake. Hikers and pets are not allowed on the the ski trail, but are welcome on the hiking trail. Warming fires and hot chocolate are available at the shelter building. Vehicle park admission sticker is required and can be purchased at the park office. Meet at the Woods Lake Picnic Area Shelter. Event is weather permitting. 6-9 p.m.
Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 or e-mail - Winter NatureFest - Winter Past Times. If you were around 100 years ago, what would you have done during the winter to pass the time? Join us for some down-to-earth fun from the past, both indoors and out. Take a nature hike, make crafts and toys, play games, and more! This event is for people of all ages. Snow or no snow! 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Winter Explorer Hike. Join us to explore the trails and discover what is happening this winter in the park. Dress to be outside. Meet at the Visitor Center. 10-11 a.m.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976 or e-mail - Bat Monitoring Workshop. Peninsula is hosting a Bat Monitoring Workshop on Wednesday, February 22, from 2 - 3:30 p.m. Meet at the Gibraltar Town Fire Department at 3496 County Road F. This program is free and open to the public. Bill Mueller of the Western Great Lakes Bird and Bat Observatory is the lead presenter. Bill will share information on bat ecology and biology, threats to bats, the reasons why bat monitoring is becoming important, and will show how to use ANABAT units. Participants will have the option of "adopt" a bat monitoring site for 2012, and be part of a state-wide effort to save Wisconsin bats. Monitoring bats is a great family activity, too. You can count bats once a summer, or once a week - all monitoring efforts are worthwhile. Bat monitoring can also fulfill high school graduation service hour requirements. 2-3:30 p.m. at the Gibralter Town Fire Department.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, (608) 356-8301 ext 140 or e-mail - Roznos Meadow Hike. Take a nature break on your lunch break! We’ll hike or snowshoe the meadow part of the Roznos Trail. Earn miles towards the “Hike 101” happening at the park. Meet at the trail head on South Shore road. Noon to 1 p.m.
Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 or e-mail - Nature Storytime. Naturalist Julie Fox will share a story and activity with pre-schoolers and their parents at the Ice Age Center. It is a great opportunity for parents to get out to the park with their little ones during this time of the year! Nature Storytime will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the number of participants. Program is indoors and outdoors, weather permitting, so parents should dress their children accordingly. 10 a.m.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, (608) 356-8301 ext 140 or e-mail - Let's Go Tracking. Winter is the best time to track the animals. We’ll start of inside the nature center, but dress for the weather as a majority of the program will be spent outside. Nature Center. 1-2 p.m.
The Department of Natural Resources offers several classes to help you learn how to safely participate in many of Wisconsin's favorite sports. Simply click on the title of the sport listed below to find out more about it. These links leave EEK! and go to the main DNR pages.
